Portugal can be proud of Macau role: ex-leader
Portugal will watch Macau's handover proud of the work it has done there, a former prime minister and president said on a visit to the enclave.
Mario Soares said that in its 400-year presence, Portugal had always strived to avoid tension while contributing to an atmosphere of common understanding and peace.
China knew Portugal well, Mr Soares said, adding that Lisbon would continue to promote openness, dialogue, understanding and friendship with the mainland, both directly and through Macau.
Speaking at the inauguration of the new premises of the Roman Catholic Inter-University Institute of Macau, Mr Soares also said Portugal had tried to stimulate Macau's development in terms of infrastructure and welfare.
He arrived for a private visit on Wednesday and returns to Lisbon today.
He was in charge of Macau affairs during his term as president, which ended in March 1996.
